Mandatory masking ending for Houma-Thibodaux Masses

Masks will no longer be required at Catholic Mass in the Houma-Thibodaux Diocese, but Bishop Shelton Fabre says he strongly encourages parishioners to continue to use masks and practice social distancing in church.

Fabre's Thursday announcement follows Gov. John Bel Edwards' new proclamation rolling back the statewide mask mandate that had been in effect since July.

"Let me also state, however," Fabre said, "that at Catholic School Masses during instructional hours, masks, social distance and capacity limitations will still be enforced as required by state mandates and protocols for schools.

"With the concerns regarding the virus still very much part of our everyday lives, we cannot lose sight of the importance of our continued vigilance because the pandemic’s hold on our state, country, and world has not completely subsided, and the fight against this virus continues."

Because so many Catholics are elderly, homebound or immuno-compromised, the bishop said, all Catholics in the diocese will still have dispensation from their obligation to attend Mass.

"In closing, let me state my gratitude to all of you for your strong faith," Fabre said. "We are deeply grateful for those who have returned to Mass, and encourage those of you who have not returned to Mass as of yet, but can do so, to join us and to receive Jesus Christ in the Most Holy Eucharist at Mass."